Atlanta discusses new anti-smoking law

ATLANTA (FOX 5 Atlanta) - For those who enjoy lighting up, there is a new anti-smoking law in the works at Atlanta City Hall.

It targets or expands restricted smoking zones inside restaurants, the airport as well as what's been described as a new craze -- the e-cigarette.

The surgeon general has just labeled the e-cigarette as an epidemic among young people.

Members Matt Westmoreland and Andre Dickens are co-sponsors of the anti-smoking bill.

Currently, a restauranteur can have a smoking establishment as long at his patrons are all adults. Under the proposal, that allowance would be no more. There are exemptions for cigar bars and hookah lounges.

At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, smokers can go to one of 13 rooms to smoke. Those would be closed. Smokers would be restricted to stepping outside the airport to take a puff.

The proposal was introduced late Monday afternoon. Before there is any action on the proposal, officials will hold a work session to hear all side of the issue.